Q. My daughter has been exercising multiple times a day — it's beginning to take over her life. Can this be bad for her?

A.Excessive exercising can indeed be detrimental to your daughter's health. Over-exercising, often associated with eating disorders, can lead to tissue, bone, cartilage, and muscle damage — and even disruption of the menstrual cycle. Feeling a compulsive need to exercise and having intense feelings of guilt over a missed workout are common signs in a teen who over-exercises.

If you think your daughter may be a compulsive exerciser, talk to your doctor for advice. He or she can better evaluate the situation and help you and your daughter find the best way to deal with the situation.